Little LP Christmas Parade

On December 13th, I rode in the Lake Placid Christmas parade...short and sweet! The best part was the amazing convertible I borrowed from Alan Jay. Needless to say, I had quite a fun weekend zipping around in that! I was always eager to run to the grocery store or go into town if my parents or I forgot something. There's nothing like riding with the wind blowing through your hair- no worries (at least for those few minutes : ) The worst part was handing the keys back over to the dealership- I felt like I just lost my best friend : ( Anyway, I also put together a storytime last Friday for Christmas in Lake Placid with Jr. Miss Lake Placid, Kassie Canevari. We didn't have a very big turnout, but had fun with the ones who came. If I get some pictures, I will be sure to post them! Christmas break has been very busy so far- not much time for fun. I've been working, with a few days off to go shopping. It's so weird, but I really do miss Nova right now. I thought I would NEVER say that...I used to count down the days until I could come home! Who thought I would ever miss school? lol. Hope the Christmas season isn't too stressful on you-remember to cherish the memories and make it count! Love 'til next time!

Boys and Girls Club

Last Friday night, I was invited to emcee the Boys and Girls Club Performing Arts Center Annual Holiday Showcase. I had a blast getting to know everyone backstage before the event. I met some very talented performers and future actors, actresses, and American Idols! The show was youth produced by members from different clubs all around Broward County. Even dinner was prepared by the members of the Admirals Club right near my college. I was introduced to many staff members and volunteers (that I will be working with), who all seem so genuine and helpful. They definitely have some very special connections with the kids, and you could tell that it was a family-type atmosphere, which was relaxed and refreshing! I also had fun chatting with the students after the showcase about their dreams for the future...and the thing I love about them? They dream big, just like me! Why settle for less when the possibilites are endless? I truly enjoyed my night- God has been teaching me so much about really learning to live in the moment and savor it-take it all in. Instead of worrying about tomorrow, I now look forward to it with anticipation, but remember that the day can easily get lost if I'm too busy looking ahead. Every day, every moment- God has something special planned for us, and I wouldn't want to miss out on the possibility that today has to offer because I'm too busy running ahead of Him! It was so fun to just talk and enjoy the company of all these amazing and gifted students, and I look forward to working with them throughout the remainder of my school year here in Ft. Lauderdale! For now, it's back to long hours of studying, complete with highlighters, flashcards, and snack breaks (which is my favorite part ; ) in preparation for finals. One more week until I'm back home for Christmas break, and I can't wait to spend time with my family and friends! Only 18 days until Christmas...boy, do I have some shopping to do (as if that's a bad thing)! : ) Love 'til next time!

Christmas on Las Olas

A White Christmas in Florida?
With Mrs. Florida and Miss Florida Teen

At Carrol's Jewelers, a pageant sponsor for Florida US Continental

Salvation Army Band

Perhaps the most adorable girl ever...though I meet too many to choose just one!

Last night, I made an appearance at Christmas on Las Olas with Lindsey, Mrs. Florida US Continental and Jenna, Miss Florida Teen US Continental. The street was bustling with activity, from show choirs to children's dance groups to bands. There was even an ice skating rink set up and a mountain of snow. Needless to say, the event was a hit and attracted a very large crowd from the area. It took me almost 20 minutes just to walk to Carrol's! I met many little fans and had fun chatting with people of all ages. It was a bit chilly, and I was worried that I wouldn't have anything to wear...that's the bad thing about leaving for college- you don't want to bring all your clothes, but you never know which ones you will need. I missed my cute red trenchcoat, but threw on a black velvet jacket over my dress to keep warm. It worked for the most part. Next weekend, I'll be headed back home for some good R&R after finals- thank goodness! I'll be participating in the Lake Placid Christmas Parade and also hope to do some storytime(s) there over break.
I will keep you posted...for now, enjoy the holiday shopping and festivities!

Miracle on 136th Street

Kassie and I had the opportunity to participate in the Falls Mall annual parade- Miracle on 136th Street. The parade is a spin off the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade, so it's a very big event for Miami and we had lots of fun participating! We rode in a 1957 Ford Thunderbird convertible, which was so awesome! I loved meeting all the small (and incredibly adorable) admirers...many are in pictures above. I also ran into the only present I want for Christmas- an adorable pink customized Range Rover- that's not too bad right, Dad? : ) Just kidding! My mom, Mrs. Jen, and Mrs. Wrenn all joined us for the fun- though poor Mrs. Wrenn was food deprived while searching for the car and waiting for the driver to arrive ; ). After the parade, we changed out of our heels, dresses, and queen apparel into "normal attire," which was way more comfortable. We didn't let the day escape without a shopping finale. Mom and I didn't have very much luck, but definitely enjoyed spending time together! Leaving the mall, we headed for some food at Bahama Breeze, only to find a waiting time of an hour and a half!!! Our stomachs were way too hungry for that! Instead, we decided to head to Outback, which totally broke our rule of never eating somewhere that's in Highlands County when going out of town...oh well, we had fun regardless! It was great to do an appearance with Kassie and spend time with my Mom all in one day. What can I say- I'm a lucky girl!